Międzychód

Międzychód is an urban-rural municipality located in the Greater Poland Voivodeship, within the Międzychód County, with its administrative seat in the town of Międzychód. The history of the municipality dates back to before 1975 when it was part of the Gorzów Voivodeship. In 2019, the municipality had a population of 18,391, and according to 2002 data, it covers an area of 307.24 km², with forest land dominating, accounting for 51.08% of the total area. The municipality is situated in the Poznań Lakeland, in its western part known as the Międzychód-Sieraków Lakeland, and is characterized by a rich network of water bodies and lakes, including 52 lakes with a total area of approximately 712 hectares. Among the largest lakes are Jezioro Gorzyńskie and Jezioro Bielskie. The municipality consists of 42 rural settlements organized into 26 village councils (sołectwa), with the largest village being Bielsko, which has 1,527 inhabitants. Other larger villages include Łowyń and Kamionna. The municipality also boasts a rich collection of religious architecture, including the Church of the Martyrdom of John the Baptist and the Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in Międzychód, as well as religious sites in Kamionna, Lewice, and Łowyń. Additionally, there are over 60 roadside crosses and shrines throughout the area, highlighting local religious traditions. Międzychód borders the municipalities of Drezdenko, Kwilcz, Sieraków, Lwówek, and Miedzichowo, as well as the Międzyrzecz and Nowy Tomyśl counties, underscoring its regional significance. The municipality combines natural beauty with rich cultural heritage, making it an attractive place to live and visit.